Average coming out age has fallen by over 20 years

Under 18s now come out at 15 on average

The average coming out age has fallen by over 20 years in Britain, according to Stonewall’s latest online poll.

The poll, which had 1,536 respondents, found that lesbian, gay and bisexual people aged 60 and over came out at 37 on average. People aged 18 and under are coming out at 15 on average.

Ruth Hunt, Stonewall’s Deputy Director of Public Affairs, said: ‘People are coming out younger and younger. Everyone should come out when they feel ready and confident but this is an encouraging trend and sends a positive message to anyone not yet out: you don’t have to wait. Britain is a fairer country than it once was, and support is available to you.’

Ruth Hunt continues: ‘Young people are coming out in schools across Britain right now. As lesbian, gay and bisexual pupils become more visible than ever, it’s essential schools make things better for them. Stonewall can help make this happen. This National Anti-Bullying Week, we’re encouraging people to write to their local MPs and ask if their schools are using Stonewall resources – including our anti-homophobia DVD FIT – to tackle homophobic bullying.’

Stonewall’s new ‘It gets better … today’ campaign tells young people that they don’t have to wait for their lives to improve – they can be great now. New messages of support include teachers, parents, MPs, soap stars and celebrities including Joe McElderry, Danny Miller, Sue Perkins, John Partridge, Ryan Thomas, Clare Balding, Antony Cotton, Gareth Thomas, Brian Dowling, Margot James MP and John Bercow MP. View these messages and more, plus find out how you can support Stonewall for National Anti Bullying Week (15 – 19 November) at: www.stonewall.org.uk/itgetsbettertoday